Discover the Key Internship Resume Mistakes in New Zealand

Applying for an internship in New Zealand can be competitive, and many candidates struggle with their resumes. Common mistakes can lead to immediate rejection, blocking your path to interviews. To increase your chances, consider reviewing your resume early to identify and correct any potential errors.

Mistake #1 – Poor Formatting

Why this hurts

Resumes that are difficult to read can frustrate recruiters. If your formatting is inconsistent, it may not be ATS-friendly.

Example

• Bad: Random font changes and spacing.
• Better: Uniform font style and size with clear section headers.

How to fix

• Choose a clean, professional template.
• Keep font sizes consistent throughout.

Mistake #2 – Lack of Keywords

Why this hurts

Without relevant keywords, your resume may not pass ATS filters. Recruiters look for specific terms that match the job description.

Example

• Bad: "I am a team player."
• Better: "Collaborated in team projects to enhance workflow."

How to fix

• Study the job description and incorporate keywords naturally.

Mistake #3 – Unclear Objective Statement

Why this hurts

Vague or generic objective statements can weaken your resume. Recruiters want to see your specific interest in the internship.

Example

• Bad: "Looking for a position in a company."
• Better: "Seeking an internship in marketing to apply my skills in digital media."

How to fix

• Craft a tailored objective that aligns with the internship role.

Mistake #4 – Ignoring Relevant Experience

Why this hurts

Failing to highlight experiences that relate to the internship can lead to missed opportunities. Recruiters look for relevant skills.

Example

• Bad: Listing non-relevant jobs without context.
• Better: Detailing volunteer work or projects that demonstrate applicable skills.

How to fix

• Focus on experiences that showcase your qualifications for the internship.

Mistake #5 – Missing Contact Information

Why this hurts

If your contact details are incomplete, recruiters can't reach you for interviews. Simple mistakes here can cost you a chance.

Example

• Bad: No phone number listed.
• Better: Include a valid phone number and email address.

How to fix

• Ensure your contact information is clearly displayed at the top of your resume.

Mistake #6 – Overly Lengthy Resumes

Why this hurts

Internship resumes should be concise. Lengthy resumes can deter recruiters who have limited time to review applications.

Example

• Bad: A two-page resume for an internship.
• Better: A one-page resume highlighting key experiences.

How to fix

• Limit your resume to one page, focusing on the most relevant information.

Mistake #7 – Spelling and Grammar Errors

Why this hurts

Typos and grammatical mistakes can signal a lack of attention to detail. This is especially critical for roles requiring strong communication skills.

Example

• Bad: "I am good at writing."
• Better: "I possess strong writing skills demonstrated through my coursework."

How to fix

• Proofread multiple times or use grammar-checking tools.

Mistake #8 – Not Tailoring Your Resume

Why this hurts

A generic resume can make you appear uninterested. Tailoring your resume shows commitment to the specific role.

Example

• Bad: Using the same resume for every application.
• Better: Customising your resume for each internship application.

How to fix

• Adjust your resume for each internship, focusing on relevant skills and experiences.

Entry-Level

Entry-level candidates often struggle with showcasing relevant skills. Focus on projects, internships, and volunteer experiences that demonstrate your capabilities.

Mid-Level

Mid-level candidates should highlight leadership roles and achievements. Ensure that your resume reflects your growth and the impact you've had in previous positions.

Senior / Lead

Senior candidates must effectively communicate their strategic vision and leadership accomplishments. Tailor your resume to reflect your industry expertise and significant contributions.

• Ensure consistent formatting and font usage.
• Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description.
• Craft a clear and specific objective statement.
• Highlight relevant work and volunteer experiences.
• Include complete and accurate contact information.
• Limit your resume to one page.
• Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
• Tailor your resume for each application.
• Use a standard file type like PDF or DOCX.
• Check for ATS compatibility.

Your internship resume is your first step towards an exciting opportunity. Don’t let common mistakes hold you back from interviews.

Consider reviewing your CV with mistakes.cv for a professional touch and to ensure you present your best self to potential employers.